THE FREEDOM TO FORGIVE

by Agung, St Paul Methodist School, Timor-Leste.

One of the greatest joys of serving at St Paul Methodist School (SPMS) is witnessing how God quietly transforms lives through Christian Education. This year marks my third year of teaching at SPMS. What began as a teaching role has grown into a ministry far beyond what I ever imagined.

Through daily interactions in the classroom, meaningful relationships have been built, and many students have found someone they can trust during difficult times.

Over the past three years, many students have come to me to share their struggles, disappointments, fears, and personal hurts. One of these students is Zailani, who is now in Grade 10. For many years, she carried deep disappointment, anger, and bitterness towards her father. The emotional burden she carried often affected both her learning and daily life.

One day, I was teaching a lesson on forgiveness. As God's Word was shared, I felt led to invite the students to quietly open their hearts to the Lord during a time of prayer.

After the class ended, Zailani approached me in tears and asked for help. As we prayed together and she began to surrender her pain to God, the Lord started a healing work in her heart.

Over the following months, God gradually set her free from the bitterness she had carried for so long. By His grace, she was able to say to her father, “I forgive you.” Those simple words marked a turning point in her life.

Today, Zailani is a different person. She has experienced God's love, peace, and healing in a remarkable way. Even more encouragingly, she has expressed her desire to be baptised as a public declaration of her faith in Jesus Christ.

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36, ESV)

Zailani's story is only one among many. Every year, students come carrying burdens that are often hidden behind their smiles: family conflicts, rejection, anxiety, loneliness, and other personal struggles.

I am continually reminded that while we cannot change hearts, God can. He alone brings healing, restores broken lives, and draws young people to Himself.

Thank you for being part of what God is doing at SPMS. Please continue to pray that God will open more opportunities to share His love and His Word with our students, and that many more young people will experience His transforming grace and become faithful followers of Jesus Christ.

To God be all the glory!

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